I was surprised to stumble on the complete version of the Stanley Kramer film On The Beach posted on YouTube. The 1959 American post-apocalyptic science fiction drama had an enormous impact on me when I first saw the movie on television when I was a young teenager. The film is based on Nevil Shute’s powerful 1957 novel of the same name. The story is set in a world devastated by nuclear war, and it explores the lives of a group of people in Australia as they await the inevitable arrival of deadly radiation that will reach them soon. The film features an ensemble cast led by Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, Fred Astaire, and Anthony Perkins. As the characters face their impending doom, they grapple with the existential questions of life, love, and the consequences of human actions. “On the Beach” is known for its poignant portrayal of the impact of nuclear war and the inevitability of the end of humanity. The movie received critical acclaim for its powerful performances and thought-provoking themes. It remains a significant work in the genre of post-apocalyptic cinema.

Although it views the world through the lens of the 1950s U.S., it’s well worth a watch if you have two hours to spare.